The Arizona Cardinals have released linebacker Akeem Davis-Gaither and defensive lineman Bilal Nichols, freeing up more than $10 million in salary cap space, the team announced on Thursday in Tempe, Arizona. This move is part of a broader roster restructuring under new head coach Mike LaFleur.
Background on Changes Following Coaching Shift
LaFleur takes over after the Cardinals dismissed Jonathan Gannon following a disappointing 3-14 season. The team is clearly rebuilding, having already notified two-time Pro Bowl quarterback Kyler Murray of his impending release when the new league year begins next Wednesday.
Player Contributions and Contract Details
Davis-Gaither, 28, appeared in all 17 games last season and started 13, recording 117 tackles including 51 solo stops. He had recently signed a two-year contract worth $10 million scheduled to run through 2025. Nichols, meanwhile, struggled with injuries, managing only 10 games over the past two years despite a three-year, $21 million deal signed in 2024.
Implications for the Cardinals’ Future
These roster cuts mark a strategic effort by the Cardinals to rebuild and allocate resources more efficiently under LaFleur’s leadership. The upcoming release of Kyler Murray further signals a significant shift in the team’s direction as it seeks to improve after last season’s poor record.
“The team has already informed two-time Pro Bowl quarterback Kyler Murray that he will be released at the beginning of the new league year next Wednesday.” ?David Brandt, The Associated Press
“Davis-Gaither played in all 17 games last season, including 13 starts. The 28-year-old made 117 tackles, including 51 solo tackles after signing a $10 million, two-year deal in 2025.” ?David Brandt, The Associated Press
“Nichols played in just 10 games over the past two injury-filled seasons after signing a $21 million, three-year deal in 2024.” ?David Brandt, The Associated Press
